Are Roof Repairs An Urgent Issue (5 Things You Need to Know)
Discovering that your roof needs repair can be challenging. It can cause financial strains and take time out of your busy schedule.
As a result, homeowners tend to put necessary repairs off until the last minute.
Regardless of how expensive it is to repair your roof or how busy your schedule is, there are a few reasons why it is essential to take care of any roof leaks or issues as soon as possible.
Rescue My Roof specializes in roof repairs and has served thousands of homeowners across Southeastern Wisconsin. We’ve helped them promptly achieve the roof of their dreams and saved them from those pesky roof repairs.
Today we’re utilizing our expertise to give you some of the key reasons you don’t want to wait to get your roof evaluated if you’ve noticed an issue.
You might find it necessary to contact a contractor to begin the repair process before any further damage occurs. You can find additional resources to find the best contractor in your area below.
The Top Five Reasons Why It’s Necessary to Repair Your Roof ASAP
Roof issues can be complex and expensive, but homeowners mustn’t ignore roofing problems.
In many cases, it is already extensive by the time the homeowner has noticed the damage. There may be interior water damage to your home or more extensive roof damage than what’s visible.
If you’re able to see the problem – chances are it’s already severe enough to need a professional repair.
Here’s what can happen if you continue to wait to repair your roof:
1. Rotten Roof Decking
Decking is the base of your roof. When a roof is constructed, they lay down wooden boards (traditionally plywood or OSB) over the top of your home. This created the foundational layer that the rest of the roof can rest on.
Sturdy decking is essential to the structural integrity of your roof. When damage occurs to the decking, your roof can sag or cave in.
The first line of defense against any water damage to your home is the roof’s shingles. When the shingles are cracked, loose granules, or blown off, water can seep through to the decking and cause water damage.
Over time, the decking can rot and cause sagging in the roof.
Here are some other signs you need to know:
- Signs of Mold or Mildew In Your Attic
- Missing shingles
- Curling/buckling shingles
If you’ve noticed any of these signs on your roof, it’s time to call in the roofing experts so they can evaluate your roof and accurately diagnose the problem.
2. Damaged Insulation
Insulation is essential for your home’s efficiency and your roof’s longevity.
Insulation acts as a barrier to heat loss and gain. So when you want to keep your home cool in the summer and warm in the winter, proper insulation will be your best friend.
When roof insulation is damaged or holds any moisture, it can cause additional issues that will eventually require repair.
Wet insulation over time can lead to warping and other structural damage. It also means that the moisture will slowly degrade the entire roofing system.
Additionally, excess moisture is a breeding ground for bacteria and mold.
If you notice wet insulation, mold, mildew, or water stains in your attic, it’s best to call an expert to determine the next steps for a repair.
3. Damaged Drywall
When a roof leak is left unchecked, water doesn’t just stop at your roof. It can seep into places you wouldn’t expect.
Once water is in your home, it can cause damage to your interior drywall. If you’ve noticed water stains appearing out of nowhere, a roof leak may be the cause.
Once a leak is this severe, it’s a costly repair. That’s why it’s essential to take action as soon as you notice the signs of a roof leak.
4. Higher Energy Bills
Fearing the roof repair price may make you hesitate to get it fixed. However, you may spend more money on energy bills in the long run.
If your roof is damaged, it can cause your heating and cooling units to work harder to maintain the internal temperature of your home.
Additionally, extreme hot or cold areas in the home may be hard to remedy by turning the heat or air conditioning up or down. This fluctuation can lead to frustration and higher energy bills.
Keeping your roof well-maintained by getting repairs when needed will help combat this issue and save your pocketbook.
5. Poor Curb Appeal
When a roof is well maintained, it can add to your home’s curb appeal. If repairs are not done on time (leading to additional issues), your home may look drabber.
If curb appeal is important to you, it’s recommended that you take the time to inspect your roof twice a year before and after winter to ensure your roof can handle the wear and tear winter weather brings.
You will be able to catch any potential problems before they require extensive repair.
Additionally, making sure your roof is in good condition will positively impact the resale value! If you’re planning on putting your home on the market in the future (a.k.a, it’s not your forever home), consider getting your roof evaluated for damage.
How to Determine If You Need Roof Repairs
Not all roofing issues you encounter will be salvageable through repairs. You may need a contractor to do a roof replacement to ensure all problems are addressed.
If you’ve noticed issues like:
- Leaks in multiple areas
- Poor shingle conditions (curling, cupping, missing shingles)
- Roof sagging
You will need a professional to diagnose the problem and may eventually need a total roof replacement.
However, here are some of the roof issues that can be repaired:
1. Missing Shingles
Due to damage, age, and poor workmanship, shingles can occasionally blow off of your roof. It can be a repairable problem if you notice areas where shingles are missing.
A roofing contractor can match new shingles to your existing shingles and cover the areas where they are missing.
If the shingles cannot be matched because they are no longer in production, you may want to consider a replacement for cosmetic reasons. However, in these cases, insurance will usually cover the replacement cost.
Missing shingles can leave your roof vulnerable to water damage. If you have noticed areas of missing shingles on your roof, don’t wait. Call a roofing contractor to get an estimate on repairs.
2. Minor Leaks
If you have one area on your roof leaking, a repair is possible. A roofing contractor can patch up the leak and replace any materials that the moisture may have damaged.
However, if your roof is old and there are other problem areas, it may be more cost-effective to do a roof replacement.
The best thing to do in this scenario is to have a professional inspect your roof. If the leak is the only issue and they can find the water source, a repair will do the trick.
If the issue cannot be properly diagnosed, or they spot other areas of concern, then a roof replacement might be necessary.
3. Mold or Mildew Growing in the Attic
Mold or mildew growing in your attic space can pose a safety risk to you and your family. But it doesn’t mean that you immediately have to get a roof replacement.
Roofing experts can spray your attic space to kill all the mold and replace any wooden decking with too much damage.
However, if a significant portion of your roof is affected, it might be ideal to get a roof replacement. The only real way to know which option is best for you is to contact a professional to inspect your home.
4. Rotten Decking
Small areas where decking may be damaged can be repaired. A roofing contractor can tear off the shingles and underlayment in that area, cut out the rotten decking, and replace the wood.
Again, this repair process is contingent on the extent of the damage. If they begin to tear up the roofing materials and find the majority of your roof has been damaged, a replacement will be necessary.
The Next Steps To Take After You’ve Encountered Issues With Your Roof
Some issues like rotten decking, missing shingles, and minor leaks can be repaired. Large-scale issues like multiple leaks, curling and cupping shingles, and roof sagging require a replacement.
If you’ve noticed these issues, time is of the essence. You don’t want to wait and find yourself paying more for repairs or a replacement later on.
Not experiencing large-scale roofing issues? You can continue your roofing education with “9 Questions You Should Ask Before Hiring a Roofing Contractor” and “What To Expect At Your Roof Estimation Appointment.”
If you’ve encountered any of the issues on this list in the greater Milwaukee Area, Rescue My Roof can provide you with a free estimate. Get your free estimate by contacting us today, and we will gladly help you with any repairs or roof replacements.